Sunday 30 October 2022

The Neapolitan Nativity Scene at the Chateau Royal d'Amboise

Every year the Chateau Royal d'Amboise brings its impressive Neapolitan nativity scene out of storage and displays it in the Great Hall. 

Neapolitan nativity scene, Chateau Royal d'Amboise, Indre et Loire, France. Photo by Loire Valley Time Travel.

Traditionally the setting up of these nativity scenes begins on 30 November, and is finished by 8 December. The background for the Holy Family is typically a ruined temple in which the stable is housed, with beautiful angels flying above. The peasants are dressed in Neapolitan and Sicilian regional costumes. In the really expensive sets the jewels adorning the Kings and their entourage are real. The 'oriental' band is also a typical feature.